Durant’s, the beloved central Phoenix steakhouse known for its red velvet booths, old-school charm and 75-year history, is set to reopen its doors on Dec. 17 after nearly nine months of closure.
The restaurant, at Central Avenue and Thomas Road, underwent significant updates after being purchased earlier this year by Mike and Jeff Mastro, their father Dennis, and partner Scott Trolio — the team behind several high-profile Valley restaurants, including Steak 44, Ocean 44 and Dominick’s Steakhouse. The Mastros, recognized as James Beard Award semifinalists in 2020, have emphasized that while the kitchen and back-of-house infrastructure needed modernization, the restaurant’s vintage dining room would remain intact.
Durant’s originally closed in February for renovations following the ownership change. A tentative Dec. 10 reopening was announced earlier this fall, but the date has been shifted to Dec. 17 to finalize preparations.
Founded in 1950 by Jack Durant and Jack R. McElroy, the restaurant operated under the McElroy family for generations before the sale. The new owners say they’re committed to maintaining the iconic atmosphere that helped make Durant’s one of Phoenix’s most storied dining destinations.
